Lake Natoma is a narrow reservoir on the American River between Nimbus Dam and Folsom Dam, just south of the city. It is smaller and calmer than Folsom Lake — motor boats are prohibited, which keeps the water quiet and makes it particularly good for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. A rental concession near Negro Bar State Park offers paddle craft by the hour.
The American River Bike Trail runs along the north shore of Lake Natoma, linking Folsom to the city of Sacramento 45 kilometres downstream. This is one of the finest urban cycling routes in California — largely flat, paved, and shaded by oaks and cottonwoods for much of its length. You can ride all the way to Old Sacramento in a half-day. The Nimbus Fish Hatchery at the west end of the lake is worth a detour if you want to watch salmon being processed during the fall run.